November marks the arrival of winter, with relatively high-elevation Petra now distinctly chilly, especially at night. The rainy season also begins at the end of November and continues through March, although chances of it raining on any given day are still slim. But the “Pink City” still holds plenty of charms, with great hiking to keep you warm, and a last chance to hike certain routes before increasing rains make them off-limits.
## Petra in November: A Comprehensive Guide
November in Petra marks a significant transition as autumn gives way to the cooler embrace of winter. The weather undergoes a noticeable shift, demanding a thoughtful approach to packing. While sunshine still graces many days, be prepared for a considerable drop in temperatures, especially as the month progresses.
**Weather in Petra in November**
As November unfolds, the warmth of the preceding months fades, making way for a crisper, cooler atmosphere. Temperatures experience a sharp decline, making a warm jacket an absolute essential for any traveler. During the day, the average high temperature manages to reach only 68°F (20°C), but it’s important to note that many days can be significantly colder than this. The average low temperature plummets to a chilly 46°F (8°C), so you’ll want to be prepared for cooler conditions.
The landscape of Petra itself can influence the weather you experience. The first biting winds of winter begin their seasonal sweep across the ridgetops, adding a bracing element to the air. The siqs (canyons) of Petra can also channel these winds, creating localized areas where the chill is even more pronounced. As evening descends, temperatures can drop dramatically, with nights becoming bitterly cold and often close to freezing.
Therefore, when packing for a November trip to Petra, it is crucial to adopt a layered approach. Cold weather clothing, including thermal layers, warm sweaters, and a windproof jacket, are absolutely essential for comfortable exploration. However, don’t completely abandon your lighter summer clothing. You’re still likely to encounter some warm, sunny days, particularly earlier in the month, and you’ll want to be comfortable during these periods as well. Be sure to bring clothes that you can layer up or remove as needed.
While the shift towards winter brings cooler temperatures, it also increases the likelihood of cloudy and rainy days. However, there’s good news on this front: Petra, on average, experiences only two days of rain throughout the entire month of November. This means that the vast majority of days are still blessed with the bright blue skies that Petra is famous for. Even with the cooler temperatures, it’s still wise to pack essential sun protection items. Sunscreen is a must, even on overcast days, as the desert sun can still be strong. A shade hat and sunglasses are also essential for protecting yourself from the sun’s glare and preventing sunburn. Finally, comfortable yet sturdy walking shoes are non-negotiable for navigating Petra’s rocky terrain and exploring its many wonders.
**Crowds and Costs in Petra in November**
November is something of a transitional month for tourism in Petra. Despite the increasingly cool weather, early November often sees a continuation of the relatively high visitor numbers experienced in the peak seasons. You can expect the “Pink City” to be fairly crowded during this period, so prepare for potentially longer queues and busier sites.
However, as November progresses, visitor numbers gradually begin to diminish. This is because many travellers are choosing to visit during the warmer months. This reduction in crowds allows for a more intimate and immersive experience of Petra’s unique atmosphere. You’ll be able to explore the sites at your own pace, linger longer at your favorite viewpoints, and generally enjoy a more relaxed and personal connection with the ancient city. While November might not offer the complete solitude of the true off-season, it’s certainly nowhere near as crowded as the spring, which is by far the busiest time of year.
As visitor numbers dwindle, hotel rates and tourist excursion prices in Wadi Musa, the town closest to Petra, begin to fall. Local entrepreneurs are keen to capture the remaining visitors, and this often translates into more competitive pricing and better deals for travellers.
For those planning a trip in early November, it’s still wise to book flights and reserve accommodations well in advance to secure the best prices and availability. However, if you’re flexible with your travel dates, late November can be an excellent time to take advantage of winter bargains and enjoy a more budget-friendly trip to Petra.
**What to Do in Petra in November**
The combination of low, clear sunlight and crystal-clear air makes November a photographer’s dream in Petra. The rose-red city, carved into sandstone cliffs, offers a spectacular kaleidoscope of color and texture, and the play of light and shadows at this time of year enhances the visual drama. The cooler temperatures also allow for longer periods of time spent outdoors shooting, without the discomfort of the summer heat.
For photographers, the best time to capture the magic of Petra is usually the hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset. During these “golden hours,” the light warms the sandstone hues, making the colors appear even richer and more vibrant. The low angle of the sun also creates long, dramatic shadows that add depth and dimension to your photographs.
When photographing the Treasury, which is built deep within a canyon, it’s best to wait until the midday sun has passed. At this time, light bounces off the opposite canyon wall, accentuating the rich hues of the Treasury’s facade.
To capture truly memorable photographs of Petra, try to work the angles and seek out fresh perspectives that avoid the well-worn clichés. Get up high for wide-angle shots down over the Treasury or the Monastery, which will give a sense of scale and location. The Siq is another great place for interesting pictures. Capturing a clear view of the Treasury as seen from the Siq can be challenging at the busiest times of day, but try using a slow shutter speed on a tripod to blur the flow of visitors.
Early November offers some of the most agreeable weather of the year, which makes it perfect for long hikes and exploring the surrounding desert landscape. The 8-mile (13 km) desert trail from Little Petra to Petra is a particularly invigorating and rewarding hike that is easily done by anyone in reasonable physical condition. The hike offers stunning views of the desert scenery, and you’re rewarded with a spectacular entrance into Petra as the descent from Jebel al-Deir spills you out at The Monastery via the back door.
Most sites in Petra require a good deal of walking, so sturdy and comfortable shoes are essential. Climbs to must-visit sites like the Monastery and the High Place of Sacrifice require plenty of stamina, as they involve steep inclines and uneven terrain. If you’re infirm or lacking in energy, you can hire a carriage from the Visitor Center to the Treasury. The return trip from the Treasury to the Visitor Center is an easy downhill walk, so you might save the ride for your return. Near the Treasury, donkeys, mules, and camels are also available to take you to more distant and uphill sites, offering a convenient and memorable way to explore Petra’s hidden corners.
**November Events**
* **Mawlid or Mawlid al-Nabi al-Sharif:** In November, Jordanians celebrate the birthday of the Islamic prophet Muhammad in the third month of the Islamic calendar. Low-key festivities involve feasts, singing, and poetry readings. The exact date varies each year depending on the Islamic calendar.
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